Societal implications of nanoscience and nanotechnology in developing countries

Abstract

The historically unprecedented developments of nanoscience and nanotechnology, in view of their phenomenal expansion and growth, in conjunction with their convergence with information science and molecular biology, confront our society and natural environment with new challenges. Technological revolutions have shown that discoveries at the frontiers of science have the potential to pave the way for radically innovative and integrated approaches, providing new solutions for some of the most pressing problems. In order to enable decision-makers to respond to what is best for people at large, the societal implications of the newly emerging fields need to be known and understood. Nanotechnology, unlike any other technology, can find applications in virtually all areas of human life. In spite of being an infant at its evolution, some of the known issues related to nanotechnology suggest a wide spectrum of potential societal impacts. The current public nano-discourse provides sociology with a unique opportunity to switch from a merely passive, observational role to an active participating one, especially where the key players involved meet to find joint and concerted solutions for development.